Islamabad: Pakistan has shot down five Indian jets in response to late-night airstrikes carried out by India, escalating tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. The incident, which took place early Wednesday morning, has raised concerns about peace and security in the South Asian region.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), India launched attacks from within its airspace shortly after 1 a.m., targeting multiple sites in Pakistan, including areas in Punjab and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The operation, dubbed “Operation Sindoor” by India, resulted in significant civilian casualties, with 26 people reported dead and 46 injured.

The Pakistani military responded by downing five Indian aircraft, including three Rafales, one Su30MKI, and one MIG-29 Fulcrum. Additionally, a drone and an Indian brigade headquarters were destroyed. ISPR Director-General Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry confirmed the safety of all Pakistan Air Force jets after engaging with Indian forces.

The conflict at the Line of Control (LoC) has intensified, with ongoing exchanges of fire between the two sides. A Pakistani military spokesperson reported the destruction of an Indian post in the Dhundial sector of the LoC.

Analysts have pointed to India’s actions as a significant threat to regional stability, highlighting a pattern of aggression since 1947. They emphasize that the risks have increased since the current Indian administration came to power.

Pakistan has called on the international community to address India’s actions, urging a check on what it describes as India’s hegemonic ambitions to maintain peace in the region.